Daniil Medvedev walks away from the Italian Open — Then hits the jackpot

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Daniil Medvedev is looking to build some momentum on clay before the French Open, and he’s hoping the Italian Open can help him do just that.

The Russian has played in two events during this clay-court swing and was knocked out early both times.

He exited the Monte-Carlo Masters in the first round after a heavy 6-0, 6-0 loss to Matteo Berrettini.

Then at the Madrid Open, Medvedev won just two matches before losing to Flavio Cobolli in the fourth round.

But things could be looking up for him in Rome. Medvedev is a former champion there and is aiming to win back the title. He’s also just received a bit of good news that could help his chances.

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Medvedev given a walkover after Tomas Machac pulls out with illness

Medvedev was set to face Tomas Machac in his opening match at the 2026 Italian Open.

The only previous meeting between the two came at Roland Garros in 2024, where Medvedev was pushed to four sets before coming through. But their scheduled rematch won’t take place, with Machac withdrawing from Rome due to illness.

With the walkover, Medvedev moves straight into the third round. He’s now just one win away from matching his finishes at this event over the past two years.

Since winning the title in 2023, Medvedev has been knocked out in the fourth round twice in a row, losing to Tommy Paul and Lorenzo Musetti.

Medvedev’s first test is an opponent he’s never lost to

In the third round, Medvedev will take on his countryman Aslan Karatsev. He has won all five of their previous meetings, including a straight-sets win at last year’s Italian Open.